Khojaly Memorial Park Museum

The Khojaly Memorial Park Museum is a memory and commemoration site dedicated to the event that took place on the night of February 25-26, 1992, in the city of Khojaly in the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, where many Azerbaijani civilians lost their lives. This project, realized in cooperation with Kızılcahamam Municipality and the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Turkey, stands as one of the most comprehensive museums in Turkey dedicated to Khojaly.

The museum consists of indoor exhibition halls and an outdoor monument area. In the indoor section, the historical context of the event is conveyed through photographs, documents, and information panels; the memorial statue in the outer courtyard offers visitors a powerful visual experience. The venue is more than just a museum; it also holds value as a concrete expression of Turkish-Azerbaijani brotherhood and shared memory.

It is possible to visit the museum throughout the year; however, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months offer a more enjoyable option, both in terms of weather conditions and the possibility of combining it with the natural beauties of Kızılcahamam. As transportation to Kızılcahamam can sometimes be difficult in winter, it is advisable for those planning to visit during this period to check the weather forecast in advance.

Around February 26, Khojaly Massacre Commemoration Day, special events and commemoration ceremonies may be organized at the museum and in Kızılcahamam. Visitors planning to visit on these dates are advised to confirm the program with the municipality in advance.

The most practical way to reach Kızılcahamam from Ankara is to use the Kızılcahamam buses departing from AŞTİ (Ankara Intercity Bus Terminal) or various stops within the city. The journey takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Those coming by private car can use the Kızılcahamam exit from the Ankara-Istanbul highway.

After reaching Kızılcahamam center, the museum is located on Ahmet Öztekin Street in İsmetpaşa Neighborhood. Its central location makes it possible to reach on foot or by a short taxi ride. For those using public transport, there are also Kızılcahamam minibuses and taxi options.

When visiting the museum's indoor exhibition area and outdoor monument section together, an average of 1 to 1.5 hours is sufficient. For those who want to carefully examine the exhibitions, read the information panels, and spend time around the memorial statue, this period can extend up to 2 hours.

When you come to Kızılcahamam, you might consider not only visiting the museum but also exploring the district's thermal facilities, natural park, and surrounding picnic areas. In this case, it would be more logical to plan a full day or an overnight program for Kızılcahamam.

The most striking photo spot of the museum is the memorial statue located in the outer courtyard, symbolizing the Khojaly massacre. The statue offers impressive shots under different lighting conditions throughout the day; soft light can be captured in the morning, and dramatic shadows in the afternoon.

It is recommended to ask for permission from museum staff before taking photos in the indoor exhibition area; some historical documents and photographs may be subject to copyright. The park landscaping and surrounding scenery also offer suitable areas for beautiful compositions.

Kızılcahamam, being a quiet district center north of Ankara, offers limited but intimate dining options. There are various restaurants and breakfast places in the district center. Hotel restaurants associated with the region's thermal facilities can also be a good choice for lunch or dinner.

Homemade dishes unique to Kızılcahamam and classics of Ankara cuisine such as various soups, meat dishes, and village breakfast are frequently found on the menus of these restaurants. Those planning their museum visit around lunchtime can easily take a break at nearby restaurants.

It is advisable to call Kızılcahamam Municipality or check its official website before your visit to get up-to-date information about the museum's opening hours and possible closed days. Those planning to visit on public holidays should be especially careful about this.

The museum contains historically heavy and emotional content. Families with small children are advised to plan their visit considering the exhibition content. Since the outdoor area is open, remember to choose appropriate clothing in rainy weather.